Autumn brings us an array of deep, dark colors that are absolutely beautiful. The deep crimson, the dark green foliage and amber color blooms of fall mums, the golden leaves that carpet the ground, and many autumn colors certainly deserve their time of appreciation. But, as winter approaches I think it is a good idea to lighten up my surroundings. Winter days can seem long and dreary if I don't keep the atmosphere in my house uplifting.
Ways to lighten up a house in winter:
- open up the curtains, blinds, or shades to let the winter sunshine in
- use light accent colors such as light blue, silver, and white
- keep your house uncluttered for freedom of movement and a feeling of openness
- place an artificial tree in the corner of a room with a strand of tiny lights on it to lighten a dark corner
- it is good to allow a little fresh air into your home even during the winter
Winter is a time when many of us tend to get sick. One way to protect against winter colds is incorporate plenty of healthy drinks into your day. Drink often and drink healthy.
Suggestions for winter time drinks:
- fruit teas
- herbal teas
- fruit juices (a good source of vitamin C and many other vitamins)
- lemon ginger drink (recipes can easily be found online)
What you eat is especially important during the winter months. Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables will provide you with vitamins that can help you stay healthy throughout the cold and flu season.
One of the best ways to avoid getting sick in the winter is to wash your hands often and wash them well.
Stress and an insufficient amount of sleep leave you vulnerable to germs and sickness. It is important to find ways to avoid or relieve stress and ways to get sufficient rest in the winter.
Suggestions for relieving stress in the winter months:
- Exercise can relieve stress. A walk outside on a brisk winter day can be very invigorating. Just dress appropriately for the weather conditions. Indoor exercise is also beneficial and should be a regular part of your winter routine.
- A visit to a spa
- Meditation
- Yoga
- Quiet time at home engaged in an activity that relieves stress for you such as reading, writing in a journal, watching a good movie, painting, etc.
Sleep is essential to good health and increases your resistance to winter colds and the flu.
- Do not over extend yourself to the point the you collapse in bed late each night.
- Establish a definite bedtime.
- Create a bedtime ritual that prepares your mind for sleep.
Following this list of “ups” can help you have a much brighter winter and most likely a much healthier winter.
